After 13 years in the band, Johan Hallgren has decided to leave Pain Of Salvation to focus on his daughter and wife. He will not leave music altogether, but plans to work with music in a way that allows him to stay at home with his family in Sweden. That means that the band's upcoming Nov/Dec tour together with Opeth will be his last. He will of course be sadly missed, both musically and personally, and very difficult to replace. So, if you know someone who sings and plays the crap out of basically anyone, send him or her our way - we might just have a thing or two to discuss.

Johan: "I'm leaving the band with both joy and sadness. I need to stay close to my daughter and my child-to-come, they will be my greatest concern along with my wife. I will miss everyone I've met during the years, and the band will continue to have a warm place in my heart. So finally, treat yourself and all that surrounds you with respect, and stay with POS - the greatest band on the planet! Sorry if I disappoint you, I miss you already!"

This is very sad news for me. I'll try to look on the bright side and cherish the fact that I will be able to see them next month with Opeth. Since I remember PoS, he was always there, so it'll be hard to adjust.

It's so sad, he is a big part in what made me fall in love with this legendary band (along with Daniel and Fredrik, who also left) . I wish Johan best of luck with his future endeavors, and I interested in what their new guitarist will bring to the table for PoS.